Course

Hydrographic Surveying: Independent Checks

Time limit: 90 days
2 credits
Instructor: Jim Naismith

$100 Enroll

Full course description

CONRAD BLUCHER INSTITUTE FOR SURVEYING AND SCIENCE

Hydrographic Surveying:

Independent Checks

2.0 PDH / 0.2 CEU Online & Asynchronous Self-Paced — 90 Days
2.0
PDH Credits
90
Days Access
80%
Passing Score
2
Modules
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Course Overview

Hydrographic surveyors rely on sophisticated software and sensor systems to collect accurate underwater data — but what happens when that system has an undetected error? This course teaches professionals how to find errors that automated systems miss.

You will learn the principles behind independent verification, practice manual depth measurement using lead lines, and develop the critical thinking skills to evaluate whether your survey software is producing results you can trust. Real-world examples from the Corpus Christi area ground every concept in field practice.

Whether you work in dredging, navigation, or coastal engineering, this course gives you the tools to sign your name to a survey with confidence.

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Learning Outcomes

By completing this course, participants will be able to:

1

Explain what makes a measurement truly independent and why redundant measurements using the same method, equipment, and procedure cannot detect systematic errors.

2

Evaluate NGS control monuments for suitability as independent vertical checks, including interpreting orthometric height designations on NGS data sheets.

3

Apply lead line procedures to measure water depth manually, including reading the tape correctly, correcting for water level, and comparing results to an acoustic survey.

4

Interpret NMEA and EC string data formats and describe how hydrographic surveying software integrates position and depth measurements, including the role of latency correction.

5

Recognize how manual measurement methods serve as independent checks on automated survey systems, and apply that understanding to evaluate whether software output is producing reasonable results.

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Module Breakdown

MODULE 1

Manual Measurement Methods

Independent Measurement Concepts

  • Systematic vs. random error
  • What makes a check truly independent
  • Evaluating NGS control monuments
  • Vertical datum relationships

Field Verification Methods

  • Water level data sources and verification
  • GNSS RTK positioning checks
  • Lead line procedures and technique
  • Fluid mud conditions and sonar calibration
  • Corps of Engineers QC acceptance criteria

Assessment: Independent Checks and Procedures Quiz | 80% to pass

MODULE 2

Hydrographic Surveying Software

From Manual to Automated

  • How software automates the manual process
  • Position and depth as the core task
  • NMEA GGA and ZDA string formats
  • EC string depth data from echo sounders
  • Latency and time synchronization

Platforms and Configurations

  • Survey vessel configurations: basic to RTK
  • Motion reference units and sensor offsets
  • AUV platforms and inertial navigation
  • Emerging survey technologies

Assessment: Hydrographic Surveying Software Quiz | 80% to pass

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Target Audience

  • Registered Professional Land Surveyors (RPLS)
  • Licensed State Land Surveyors (LSLS)
  • Hydrographic surveyors and field technicians
  • Geospatial professionals working in coastal or marine environments
  • Civil engineers involved in dredging or waterway projects
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Technical Requirements

  • High-speed internet connection
  • Modern web browser
  • Audio capability for video lectures
  • No software installation required
  • Optional: printer for supplementary materials
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Professional Benefits

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PDH/CEU credit applicable toward professional surveyor continuing education requirements

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Expert instruction from an active hydrographic surveyor and licensed professional with decades of field experience

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Field-tested procedures drawn from real surveys in Texas coastal waters, including lead line demonstrations and positioning checks

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Foundation for critically evaluating automated survey systems and producing defensible, quality-controlled deliverables

Note: Participants are responsible for verifying acceptance of this course with their individual state licensing board. Course content is subject to updates at any time.

For registration assistance, contact Shelby Sharpe at shelby.sharpe@tamucc.edu

A Conrad Blucher Institute for Surveying and Science Professional Development Course ©